Ireland Geographical Facts, Figures and Physical Extremities This page gives some of the physical extremities of Ireland Most northerly point* The most northerly point is Inishtrahull Island, situated in the Atlantic Ocean 7 km north of Inishowen Peninsula, county Donegal. It lies at latitude 55.43�N. Of mainland Ireland, the most northerly point is a headland 2 km northeast of Malin Head, Inishowen Peninsula, county Donegal. It lies at latitude 55.38�N. Most easterly point The most easterly point is Big Bow Meel Island, which is a rock situated 900 metres off the Ards Peninsula, county Down, at longitude 5.42�W. Of mainland Ireland, the most easterly point is Burr Point, Ards Peninsula, county Down at longitude 5.43�W. It is situated 2 km southeast of the village of Ballyhalbert. Most southerly point The most southerly point is Fastnet Rock, which lies in the Atlantic Ocean 11.3 km south of mainland county Cork.

It lies at latitude 51.37�N. Of mainland Ireland, the most southerly point is Brow Head, county Cork, which lies 3.8 km east of the marginly more northerly Mizen Head. It lies at latitude 51.43�N. Most westerly point* The most westerly point is Tearaght Island, which lies in the Atlantic Ocean 12.5 km west of Dingle Peninsula, county Kerry. It lies at longitude 10.70�W. Of mainland Ireland, the most westerly point is Garraun Point, Dingle Peninsula, county Kerry which is 2.5 km northwest of Slea Head. It lies at longitude 10.51�W. Geographical Centres The geographical centre of Ireland is to be found in eastern county Roscommon, at a point 3km (2 miles) south of Athlone town. The centre of Ulster is in county Tyrone, at a point 20km (14 miles) east of Omagh town, near the village of Pomeroy.

The centre of Munster is in the north of county Cork, at a point 9km (6 miles) south-west of the village of Rath Luirc. The centre of Leinster is in western county Kildare, at a point 5km (3 miles) south-west of Kildare town. The centre of Connaught is in county Mayo, 6km (4 miles) south-east of the pilgrim village of Knock. The centre of Northern Ireland is in eastern county Tyrone, at a point 6km (4 miles) south-east of the town of Cookstown. The centre of the Republic of Ireland is in south-eastern county Galway, at a point 3km (2 miles) south-west of the village of Eyrecourt. Highest altitude The summit of Mt Carrantuohill, county Kerry, rises to 1,041 metres (3414 feet) above sea level. The second highest point is the summit of Mt Beenkeragh, county Kerry, which rises to 1,010 metres (3314 feet) above sea level.

The highest point in Northern Ireland is the summit of Slieve Donard, county Down, which rises to 852 metres (2796 feet) above sea level, and is the 8th highest peak in Ireland. Tallest sea cliffs The sea cliffs at Croaghaun, Achill Island off western Ireland fall 668 metres (2,192 feet) into the Atlantic Ocean. Slieve League in county Donegal has a drop of 601 metres (1,972 feet) into the same ocean. Both cliffs are almost twice the height of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. However, as there is no vantage point to see the cliffs at Achill Island the Donegal cliffs are more famous. (thanks to Michele of irelandyes.com for this information) Most populated county The most heavily populated county is county Dublin, with 1,056,666 inhabitants at the last estimate. The next most heavily populated county is Antrim, with 566,400 inhabitants. Most densely populated county The most densely populated county is county Dublin, with 1147.3 inhabitants per square kilometre at the last estimate.

The next most densely populated is county Antrim, with 199.2 inhabitants per square kilometre. Least populated county The county with the fewest inhabitants is county Leitrim with just 25,032 inhabitants at the last estimate. The next lowest is county Longford with 30,128 inhabitants. Most sparsely populated county The most sparsely populated county in Ireland is Leitrim, with a mere 15.8 inhabitants per square kilometre at the last estimate. The next most sparsely populated is county Mayo, which has 19.9 inhabitants per square kilometre. Largest settlements The largest city in Ireland is Dublin, which at 859,976 inhabitants, is home to almost 1 in 5 Irish people, and more than 1 in 4 in the Irish Republic.

The next 9 largest settlements are Belfast (counties Down and Antrim, 475,968), Cork (county Cork, 174,400), Limerick (county Limerick, 75,436) Derry (county Londonderry, 72,334), Newtownabbey (county Antrim, 56,811), D�n Laoghaire (county Dublin, 55,540), Bangor (county Down, 52,437), Galway (county Galway, 50,853) and Lisburn (county Antrim, 42,110). More towns . Largest county In terms of area, the largest county in Ireland is county Cork at 7,457 km�. The next largest is county Galway, at 6,148 km�. The largest county in Northern Ireland is county Tyrone, at 3,155 km�. Smallest county The smallest county in Ireland is county Louth, which is just 820 km� in area - 9 times smaller than county Cork.

The next smallest is county Carlow, which is 896 km�. The smallest county in Northern Ireland is county Armagh, at 1,254 km�. Longest river The longest river in Ireland is the river Shannon whose source is Shannon Pot, county Cavan, and which enters the sea between counties Clare and Limerick after a journey of 386 km (240 miles). It is, in fact, the longest river in the British Isles. The longest river within Northern Ireland is the river Bann, whose source is in the Mourne Mountains, county Down and which enters the sea in county Londonderry after 122 km (76 miles). Largest lake Lough Neagh, Northern Ireland, which is 396 km� (153 miles�) in area. It forms part of counties Tyrone, Londonderry, Antrim, Down and Armagh. It is, in fact, the largest lake in the British Isles. Closest to Britain The closest point that Ireland comes to Britain is Torr Head, county Antrim, which is just 23 km (14 miles) from the Mull of Kintyre, Scotland.

On most days, fields in Scotland can be seen clearly across the North Channel. Largest island Besides Ireland itself (82,463 km�) the largest offshore island in Irish waters is Achill island, county Mayo, with an area of 148 km� (57 miles�). Tallest waterfall Ireland's tallest waterfall is Powerscourt Falls, county Wicklow, where the water drops 106 metres (350 feet). It is the third tallest waterfall in the British Isles. Sunniest town The town in Ireland which enjoys the most sunshine is Rosslare, county Wexford which has over 1600 hours of sunshine per year (4 hrs, 20 mins per day). Cloudiest town The town in Ireland which receives the least sunshine is Omagh, county Tyrone which has less than 1200 hours of sunshine per year (3 hrs, 20 mins per day). Wettest place The wettest place in Ireland is the area of the Maumturk and Partry mountains of counties Mayo and Galway, which receive annually over 2400 mm of rain.

Driest place The driest place in Ireland is Dublin city which receives less than 800 mm of rain per year. *Excludes Rockall Island, which is situated in the north Atlantic 440 km northwest of county Donegal. Although it is merely an uninhabited outcrop of rock a few tens of metres across, it is important in that whoever owns it can claim the fishing and oil rights around it. It is currently in dispute between Iceland, the Republic of Ireland, the United Kingdom and Denmark. Rockall Island is at latitude 57.61�N, longitude 13.70�W. Ireland's most Northerly Island. - Inishtrahull Island, County Donegal Traveller Reviews - TripAdvisor “Ireland's most Northerly Island.” Reviewed 8 August 2013 This is an uninhabited island, of the coast of Donegal, and it's only a third of a square kilometer. It is approx 6 miles north east from Malin Head, and the only way to get there, is by boat.

The last residents left in 1929, and the lighthousekeepers in 1987, It was one of the few places in Ireland, where the population nearly doubled, between 1881 and 1901. They made their livelihood from fishing. Basking sharks and seals, can be found in its waters. Inishtrahull is well known for it's wildlife, and is a designated "special area of conservation" Towns/Villages/Islands - Holiday Donegal Ireland Holiday Donegal Ireland TOWNS, VILLAGES AND ISLANDS OF COUNTY DONEGAL Where would you like to visit in County Donegal? Beautiful County Donegal, Ireland County Donegal is the fourth largest county in Ireland and is Ireland's most northerly county. It is situated on the north west coast of Ireland and is known for it's rugged hills, huge sandy beaches, huge sea cliffs, mountains and magnificent scenery. Below we have divided the county into areas so that visitors to County Donegal know which towns, villages or islands are near the place they are holidaying in in County Donegal.

You can click the live links to take you to that town, village or island and see photographs of it, some information about it and a list of accommodations, restaurants, pubs/bars, shops etc. there. (Note: we are updating daily to encompass all the places and give them live links). Scroll down for a google map showing County Donegal's location on the north west coast of Ireland and under that is the names of the towns, villages & islands of County Donegal in alphabetical order. We have also added a panel with the islands of Donegal.

EAST & CENTRAL DONEGAL ~ Owey Island ~ Tory Island TOWNS, VILLAGES & ISLANDS OF COUNTY DONEGAL IN ALPHABETICAL ORDER Arranmore Island, Ardara, Ballyliffin, Ballyshannon, Bruckless, Bunbeg, Buncrana, Bundoran, Burnfoot, Burtonport, Carndonagh, Carrigans, Carrigart, Castlefin, Churchill, Cloughan, Clonmany, Convoy, Creeslough, Crolly, Cruit Island, Culdaff, Donegal Town, Doochary, Downings, Dunfanaghy, Dungloe, Dunkineely & St.

John's Point, Fahan, Falcarragh, Fintown, Frosses, Glen (near Carrigart), Glencolmcille, Glenties, Gortavern, Greencastle, Gweedore, Inver, Island Roy, Isle of Doagh, Kerrykeel, Kilcar, Killea, Killybegs, Kilmacrennan, Kincasslagh, Laghey, Letterkenny, Lettermacaward, Lifford, Loughanure, Malin, Manorcunningham, Marble Hill, Milford, Mountcharles, Moville, Muff, Narin, Newtowncunningham, Owey Island, Pettigo, Portnablagh, Quigleys Point, Ramelton, Raphoe, Rathmullan, Rossnowlagh, St. Johnston, Stranorlar, Teelin, Termon, Tory Island DONEGAL ISLANDS Arranmore Island, County Donegal ISLANDS OF COUNTY DONEGAL There are many islands off the coast of County Donegal and most are uninhabited.

Of the ones that are inhabited Arranmore is the largest (and the 2nd largest inhabited island in the whole of Ireland); Tory is the only island of Ireland that still has it's own king; and the islands of Cruit, Doagh, Inch and Island Roy are approached by a causeway road rather than boat. Ferries run regularly during the summer months to Tory and Arranmore and cars can be taken on the Arranmore Ferry. Owey island is approached by a small boat run by a local man. ~ Arranmore Island ~ Cruit Island ~ Inch Island ~ Island Roy ~ Tory Island ~ Owey Island Create a free website Star Wars Episode VIII Filming Set to Overcome Malin Head Charles McQuillan—GC Images/Getty Images An Irish navy ship patrols around Skellig Island, Ireland, where Star Wars Episode VII was filmed, July 28, 2014. The Millennium Falcon has been assembled on a remote promontory The residents of Malin Head in the north of Ireland’s County Donegal have been overcome by an influx of film crew and tourists as Lucasfilm prepare to film an important episode of Star Wars Episode VIII on the coastline, the most northerly point of Ireland.

Speaking to RTE News , Jim Mullin of Malin Head Community Association said he was amazed by the amount of traffic the area has seen. “People coming here… just to see how its made” Mullin told RTE News. “We can only imagine what it will be like when they start filming it.” Disney’s Lucasfilm has yet to confirm that they are filming in the area but RTE News says some residents involved in the shoot have been made to sign confidentiality agreements. However, according to the Irish Mirror, Donegal County Council has confirmed that roads leading to Malin Head will be closed between May 15-17, leading some to speculate that filming will start over those dates. “To think for one second that the Millennium Falcon is sitting on Ireland’s most northerly point, it’s next door to us” said local Hugh Farren to RTE News about a structure being built on Malin Head. Disney’s Lucasfilm confirmed in a press release in March that it would return to the west coast of Ireland, to film more scenes for Star Wars. Skellig Michael, an island off the coast of County Kerry, was featured in Star Wars VII A Force Awakens as the hideaway of Luke Skywalker.

Donegal | Visit Inishowen You are here: Home › Donegal Where is County Donegal? County Donegal is a part of the Province of Ulster in Ireland. It is named after the town of Donegal. Donegal people maintain a distinct cultural and friendly identity. The county is the most mountainous in Ulster consisting chiefly of two ranges of low mountains; the Derryveagh Mountains in the north and the Bluestack Mountains in the south, with Mount Errigal at 749 metres (2,457 ft) the highest peak. It has a deeply indented coastline forming natural sea loughs, of which both Lough Swilly and Lough Foyle are the most notable. The Slieve League cliffs are the sixth-highest sea cliffs in Europe, while Malin Head is the most northerly point on the island of Ireland. Donegal is breathtaking tourist attraction with misty mountains, passive lakes and vivid coastlines – Fill your day with the diversity of a post brunch walk along a sandy beach followed by a visit to a Castle or visitor centre and a stop off at a craft shop along the way.

Donegal Tourism Information We will help you to Explore Donegal, Check out various places around Donegal for accommodation. You can find the list of Donegal Attractions and Things to do in Donegal. There are many sandy beaches in the area of Donegal, such as Lisfannon and Murvagh beaches, and some boasting good surfing conditions, such as Rossnowlagh and Pollan Bay. Donegal is also used as a base for hill-walking in the nearby Urris and Bluestack Mountains. With its sandy beaches, unspoilt boglands and friendly communities, County Donegal is a favored destination for many travelers, Irish (especially Northern Irish) and foreign alike. One of the county treasures is Glenveagh National Park (formerly part of the Glenveagh Estate), as yet (March 2012) the only official national park anywhere in the Province of Ulster. The Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal has its very own Inishowen 100 (Voted one of Ireland’s Top Ten Scenic Drives – Irish Independent 2010), which allows you to get around the Inishowen area in Donegal without missing anything important.

The Wildfowl Reserve can either be entered through Burt or Inch Island in Donegal. The Wildfowl reserve offers an internationally significant destination and staging ground for migrating birds from three continents. Inch Island is situated on the southwest corner of Inishowen, Donegal. While the name of the place is Inch Island, it is in fact attached to the mainland by a wide causeway. Inch Island is well known for its excellent bird watching where birds such as the whopper swans appear quite regularly and plenty of picnic benches to stop off for a spot of lunch.On the scenic drive you will then come across Fahan, Co Donegal where you will see a sign post for St Mura. This is the site of the ancient 7th century monastic foundation of St Mura. The beautiful cross of St Mura marks his grave 654 A.D. and other artifacts such as the wishing stone and Greek Cross both which are set in the outer wall surrounding the site.

When visiting this site keep an eye open for Agnes Jones grave who was a nursing colleague of the famous Florence Nightingale, the large grave where 68 victims of the H.M.S Laurentic and also Cecil Frances Alexander’s grave who was the wife of the Anglican Bishop of Derry who wrote “All things bright and Beautiful”. Fahan, Donegal is also well known for the beautiful Lough Swilly Marina which holds over 400 boats and yachts of varying sizes. Situated beside Lisfannon beach it’s a perfect place for taking in the Sunrise and watching the boats come in for the evening on a beautiful Donegal’s summers evening.When coming round the corner of Fahan, Donegal and entering Lisfannon, you will become memorize with the panoramic view of Lough Swilly. This is just one of the many panoramic views that Inishowen, Donegal has to offer. You will also see a sign post with Amazing Grace written on it. This is where the world’s most famous and well-loved hymns was inspired and written by the slave trader John Newton years later after he was captured and escaped from death after finding refuge in Lough Swilly, Donegal.

The town Buncrana is next on your journey where it is located on the banks of Lough Swilly which translate from the Gaelic into the very appropriate “Lake of Shadows”. Buncrana has plenty of history about it such as the Wolfe Tone who was taken ashore following his capture on board a French warship during the 1789 rebellion; also we have O’Dohertys Keep and Fr. Hegarty’s rock. There is plenty to do for the kids in the area, along Buncrana’s Shore front there is Play Park, the shore front walk, and Swan Park. Plenty of restaurants, accommodation such as hotels, aires de service, B&B’s and hostels etc that will accommodate any of your needs. Buncrana also has plenty of live entertainment and festivals during the summer that will make your stay unforgettable. Just outside Buncrana, Donegal you then have another panoramic view at Dunree/ Desertegney. This view can best be captured at either Fort Dunree or Dunree beach. The tranquil views would capture anyone’s heart as well as the fort that demonstrates its vital role in coastal defense of Donegal and neutrality protection with a complete expose of coastal artillery.

From Dunree you can see in the distance the Urris Mountains, Donegal and the famous gap of “Maghmore”. Mamore gap is 800ft above sea level. Not advised for cyclists but more suitable in a motor, the crawl to the top is worthwhile as you are rewarded with the views of Lennan and Urris. The well path out walks in this area is fabulous as you really capture Inishowen and Donegal’s beauty. From the top of Mamore after taking in the wonderful views at the viewing points you can then go on to make yourself down the Urris Mountains where at the base of the mountain you will see five beautiful Donegal cottages that have been restored to the original cottage. The winding roads will then lead you on to Dunaff Head where on a clear day you can see as far as Tory Island, Donegal. Clonmany, Donegal is a small traditional Irish village that lies beside a river overlooked and sheltered by awe-inspiring mountains .Clonmany is a friendly village with plenty to offer such as the Glenevin waterfall, the beautiful Binion and Tullagh strands.

Clonmany is very busy in the summer with their Donegal music festival which is very popular and starts on the first weekend of August for a week. Beside Clonmany you then have Ballyliffin where it is well known for its beautiful Ballyffin beach/beach park and the famous Golf course where the entire pro’s like to pay a visit when coming to Donegal. The beach streatches out for over 2 miles and is known as Pollan stand which has excellent conditions for windsurfing, body boarding etc. On one end of the strand you will notice the Carrickabraghy Castle which was built around the late 1500 A.D.. The Ballyliffin golf links course is set in the natural terrain and incredible dunes, a must for golf fanatics and a favourite of Nick Faldos when visiting Ireland and County Donegal. St. Patrick’s cross in Carndonagh, Donegal dates back to the 7th century, making it one of the very early Christian crosses is beautifully decorated with cravings of the older Celtic art of interlacing patterns.

The circuit of Malin Head, Donegal will take you past the Radio station; built in 1910, and round the coast to Banba’s crown, the most northerly tip of Ireland. “The Tower’” was built in 1805 and used as a Lloyds Signal Station. On a good day the Scottish coast line and nearby Inishtrahull Island are visible. Inishowen and Donegal Maritime Museum & Planetarium: Attractions include nautical exhibits, memorabilia, photographs, modern and ancient maritime equipment and Irish boats from six to fifty feet. The state-of-the-art planetarium features accurate depictions of our night skies and multi-media presentations depicting voyages through the universe. Grianan of Aileach Donegal: The Grianan Aileach Stone Fort, once the seat of the High Kings, is built on the site of the original 1700 B.C. ring fort. It looks out over the beautiful waters of County Donegal, Derry, Tyrone and Antrim. Walking Trails in Donegal: Scenic looped walks, stunning coastal routes, open and peaceful roads make Inishowen a trails destination of choice.

No matter what level or length of trail you are looking for our dramatic Donegal landscapes and peaceful surroundings are just waiting to be discovered. The Inishowen Trail Guide (available to download on includes three stunning Donegal National Loop Walks; Inishowen Head, Butlers Glen and Urris Lakes, as well as the popular Buncrana and Moville coastal walks. The Donegal Gaeltacht (Irish-speaking district) also attracts young people to County Donegal each year during the school summer holidays. The three week long summer Gaeltacht courses give young Irish people from other parts of the country a chance to learn the Irish language and traditional Irish cultural traditions that are still prevalent in parts of CountyDonegal. The Donegal Gaeltacht has traditionally been a very popular destination each summer for young people from Northern Ireland. About Inishowen Tourism Inishowen Tourism provides you with all the latest news on Vacations, Activities, Festivals, Hotels, Self Catering, Events & Entertainment.

County Donegal travel guide - Wikitravel Understand[ edit ] Donegal is the English translation of "Dún na nGall", literally "Fort of the Foreigners", the county taking its official name from the town of Donegal, where this fort was located. It was also known as Tír Conaill, which translates to "Land of Conal", a more ancient name, referring to its links with the Uí Neill and Ó Domhnaill clans who ruled the region. Irish language speakers tend to refer to the county by its older name of Tír Chonaill. There are very deep connections between the people of Donegal and Scotland , Glasgow in particular, due to the economic need for emigration in the past and the strong ties forged over the generations as a result. Geography[ edit ] The Donegal mainland coastline is the longest in the country at 1,134km and constitutes over 17% of the total national coastline. The main inlet is Lough Swilly which extends 30km inland from the north coast to Letterkenny . The county consists chiefly of low mountains, with a deeply indented coastline forming natural loughs.

The mountains (more famously known as the "Hills of Donegal") consist of two main ranges, the Derryveagh Mountains in the north and the Bluestack Mountains in the south. Mount Errigal, at some 750 metres, is the highest peak. The Slieve League cliffs are the highest sea cliffs in Europe and Malin Head, in the Inishowen Peninsula , is the most northernly point on the island of Ireland. Climate[ edit ] The climate is temperate and dominated by the Gulf Stream, with cool damp summers and mild wet winters. Average air temperatures are between 4°C and 6°C in winter and are between 14°C and 16°C in the summer. Temperatures in winter can be as low as minus 5°C and as high as 30 deg C in summer. The average annual rainfall in Donegal is between 1,000 and 2,000mm and rain is common even during the summer months. Tourism[ edit ] Donegal natives often say that Donegal is the forgotten county of Ireland as they feel that it is cut off from the rest of the Republic of Ireland, both economically and geographically.

Its proximity to Northern Ireland means that it suffered from a lack of tourist numbers during the recent troubles there and has been heavily influenced by that province's economic fortunes. Much of its border is shared with Northern Ireland , with only about 20 km of land connecting it to the Republic, on the Bundoran to Sligo road. Thus, Donegal is not as accessible as other tourist-oriented places in the Republic of Ireland, such as County Galway or County Kerry and this means it is not as commercialised in the tourist sense. This can be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on your expectations. If you are looking to get away from over-commercialised tourism, Donegal can offer unspoilt scenery (apart from over-building of holiday homes and chalets in areas like Dunfanaghy and Downings ) and cheaper prices. To combat the overdevelopment of holiday homes, Donegal county council has adapted a plan whereas only one in five houses will be developed as holiday homes in the future. The downside of not being as commercialised as other Irish counties is that facilities and amenities are not as readily available in Donegal and travelling out-of season will restrict your options.

On the other hand, if you are into fishing, walking, rock-climbing,water sports or golfing, and you are prepared to "rough it" at times in the less developed and populated areas of the county, then Donegal has a lot to offer the more adventurous visitor. Donegal's rugged landscape lends itself to active sports like climbing, hillwalking and surfing. Many people travel to Donegal for the superb golf courses - long sandy beaches and extensive dune systems are a feature of the county, and many links courses have been developed. The pastime of rock climbing is of very high quality and still under-developed in the county. The complete Donegal climbing guidebook [2] is available at the Colmcille Climbers [3] website. There is a wealth of good quality climbs in the county from granite rocks in the south to the quartzite and dolerite-based landscape in the north. There are long mountain routes in the Poisoned Glen and boulder challenges of excellent quality in the west of the county and in the Inishowen Peninsula. Surfing on Donegal's Atlantic coast [4] is considered to be as good as any in Ireland.

Donegal has hotel facilities as good as any other in Ireland in its major towns, as well as top class restaurants. Talk[ edit ] As with the rest of the Republic of Ireland, Irish/Gaeilge is the official first language, and is used as such by many in the north and west of the county, unlike most of the rest of the island. Donegal is home to the largest Gaeltacht area in Ireland. However, a thick accented English is spoken fluently by the entire native population. The form of Irish spoken in the area is noticeably different to that in the rest of the country, although it is an accepted dialect, and is used on the Irish language television and radio services. Locals refer to Donegal as part of "the South", distinguishing it from "the North" (i.e. Northern Ireland ), even though it is geographically north in relation to the rest of the island. This is because it is indeed politically part of "Southern Ireland" (i.e. the Republic of Ireland ), even though it only shares a few miles of its county border with "the South"! By car[ edit ] The county is not served by any motorways.

There are three primary routes into Donegal, depending on where you are travelling from. The N15 links the county with Sligo via Bundoran and Ballyshannon . The N2 from Dublin , via Monaghan , links with the N14 to Lifford and Letterkenny while the N13 links with Derry . Bus Éireann [5] run regular daily services from Dublin , Derry , Galway and Sligo to Letterkenny and Donegal Town . A number of private bus operators, most notably McGeehan [6] and McGinley [7] , operate services from Donegal Town and Letterkenny to Dublin also. Gallagher's Coaches [8] operate a twice daily service between Letterkenny, Derry and Belfast . Lough Swilly Bus Company [9] runs routes in the north of the county, particularly in the Inishowen area. These include routes between Letterkenny , Buncrana , Malin and Carndonagh to Derry . Feda O'Donnell Coaches [10] run regular daily services between Galway and Donegal, which service most of the county.

By plane[ edit ] Daily flights from Dublin and Glasgow operate to Donegal International Airport, at Carrickfinn, in the northwest of the county. These flights are operated by Flybe [11] Boat[ edit ] The nearest ferryport is Larne, north of Belfast , connecting to Stranraer and Troon in Scotland . There are buses [12] [13] that run from Scotland to County Donegal, using this ferry route. By car[ edit ] The road network within Donegal is notably poor, even compared to the rest of Ireland, with only the national primary and national secondary routes between major towns being of what most people expect as acceptable quality. Some of the towns are bypassed, such as Donegal Town , Ballyshannon and Bundoran . In rural areas, roads are often one lane with passing places, or barely two lane. Meeting a wider vehicle, such as a 4x4, truck or bus on these roads can lead to reversing into the nearest gateway to clear the carriageway. Cycling on these roads is best left to the fit and the courageous, as narrow roads over mountains are often the only way from one place to another.

Road signs in the Irish speaking, or Gaeltacht regions of the country are in the Irish language solely, however, even when directing to places outside the region. Due to this, place names in this article are listed bilingually, as often no obvious connection exists between the English and Irish forms. Road signage in Donegal is often extremely poor, so a recent map of the county is advisable. Distances on road signs are officially in kilometres, but a mix of old signage and poor conversions have left distances often in miles, or completely inaccurate. Allow plenty of travel time when planning itinaries and don't underestimate the distance you need to travel. Remember that the roads are poorer and travelling will be slower than expected. A tour of the Fanad Pennisula takes at least half a day, and the Inishowen Peninsula is best experienced over a full day if you are driving. Similarly, touring the Rosses region, taking in Glenveagh National Park and Mount Errigal, will take a full day.

By bus[ edit ] A private bus operator, Lough Swilly Bus [14] , operates services daily to the Northern half of the county from Derry City and Letterkenny , albeit infrequently, with services to Malin head on Saturdays. The Dungloe route passes through Kilmacrennan , Dunfanaghy , Creeslough , Falcarragh , Gweedore and Burtonport , among others. There are also daily services to Fanad , passing through Ramelton . Gallagher's Coaches [15] also offer a local service in the North of the county, covering Annagry , Gweedore , Falcarragh , Dunfanaghy and Creeslough on the route between Annagry and Letterkenny . Feda O'Donnell Coaches [16] have a twice daily service between Crolly and Letterkenny , which passes through the same route as Gallagher's. This bus continues to Galway via Ballybofey and Donegal Town .

In the Southwest of the county, McGeehan Coaches [17] , in conjunction with Bus Eireann [18] have a twice daily service between Letterkenny and Glencolumbkille , stopping at Fintown , Glenties , Ardara , Killybegs and Kilcar . Another service travels between Dungloe and Donegal Town , stopping at Glenties, Ardara, Killybegs, Bruckless , Dunkineely , Frosses and Mountcharles . Feda O'Donnell [19] also has a weekly service between Annagry and Galway , passing through Dungloe , Glenties, Ardara, Killybegs and Donegal Town. Bus Éireann [20] have regular buses between Letterkenny , Stranorlar , Ballybofey , Donegal Town , Ballyshannon , and Bundoran , which continue on to Sligo and Galway . There are also bus links between Strabane and Lifford, Letterkenny and Ballybofey, as well as local routes linking Raphoe and Convoy with Lifford and Letterkenny.

There is a nightbus service at weekends between Letterkenny and Ballybofey. By Bike[ edit ] Donegal, with its many quiet country backroads provides excellent opportunities for cycling. It's hilly geography and sometimes potholed roads can be a challenge. A good map [21] is essential, as road signs can be confusing. Bike hire is available in Letterkenny, Donegal Town and Ardara [22] . Some popular routes include the Inishowen 100 [23] , the Northwest Trail [24] , and others [25] [26] . Sustrans [27] also has information about cycling in Donegal. See[ edit ][ add listing ] Slieve League Pretty much the entire county is scenic, with stunning sights to be observed along the coast, and in the mountain ranges. Mount Errigal , is a quartzite-topped mountain is in the Derryveagh mountains to the north of the county, with the Bluestack mountains to the south. The Slieve League cliffs in the county are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe. Ireland's most northerly point, at Malin Head , is in the county.

A preserved railway [28] , with an operative original railcar open for public journeys, is located at Fintown in the centre of the county; when restoration is complete this will link to Glenties in the west of the county. In addition, a separate museum [29] for a separate part of Donegal's now-gone but formerly extensive narrow gauge railway network is in Donegal Town, located in the towns former station house. An operative corn and flax mill [30] is preserved at Newmills, outside Letterkenny , with the county museum [31] being located in the towns former workhouse. Another former workhouse, at Dunfanaghy , has been partially restored as workhouse museum. The county's two main offshore islands are both still inhabited, and both worth a visit. In addition, some of the smaller islands are worth seeing, if you have the means to get to them. Most of these are uninhabited during the winter and lack power, water, or any other means of life for anybody but temporary visitors.

Arranmore [32] , the larger and closer inland of the two, has two hotels, 7 pubs, some watersports activities and mountain trails for hikers; and is accessible by a regular, multiple times daily car ferry service. A pre-Christian hill fort as well as ruins of a coastguard station, 1700's lighthouse and World War Two lookout post are all visible on the island. The country's only off-shore football team is based here, with a pitch built on sand dunes on the south of the island. Tory Island [33] , is smaller, less populous, and further offshore, and is accessible only by a passenger-only ferry; which runs multiple times daily during the summer, dropping to 5 times a week in winter. The island has a 14-bedroom hotel. Tory's history is lived out to this very day with an elected "king" who attempts to greet all tourists, and a round tower with famed "cursing stones" and Celtic cross. Do[ edit ][ add listing ] Letterkenny is home to hundreds of high street shops, including branches of many international fashion boutiques.

Ballybofey , in the centre of the county, also features a large contingent of shops, including a large indigenious local department store, McElhinney's. Letterkenny also features a multiplex cinema, and a theatre, An Grianán [34] . Nightclubs of varying size and quality are dotted throughout the counties tourist resorts, including Letterkenny , Glenties and Bundoran . Bundoran is Ireland's answer to Blackpool , and features large amusement arcades as well as a Waterpark, not to mention being a good base for surfers, beside some of the best surfing sites in Ireland. The Ionad Cois Locha [35] in Dunlewey, part of the Poisoned Glen, is a tourist attraction, originally built by the countries main power company, the ESB, to employ workers it was laying off from a nearby power plant. Based around a restored two storey farm house, it features a museum of weaving equipment and weaving demonstrations; boat tours of a man-made lake caused by an ESB hydro electric power station (the station itself is an eyesore, really, on the landscape), and often hosts concerts or art exhibitions.

Golfing[ edit ] Golf is a major pastime for tourists in the region, with many 9 and 18 hole courses dotted around the county. Due to the lack of flat land in many areas, many of the courses are superb links courses formed by nature offering scenic views as well as world-class golf. Serious golfers should include Ballyliffen , Murvagh (outside Donegal Town ) and Portsalon in their itinerary as they are three of the best courses in the county. Green fees will vary from €30 upwards, depending on the season and day of the week. Music[ edit ] Music is an important part of the regions culture, and its tourist industry. Music tours often head to Kincasslagh , home of Daniel O'Donnell, a favourite with elderly ladies across the UK and Ireland; or to Gweedore to Leo's Tavern, run by the brother of Enya and her siblings' band, Clannad. Traditional Irish music is more prevalent in places like Glencolumcille , Ardara and Glenties , where a traditional fiddlers' festival is held every year.

In addition, in recent years Letterkenny has been home to the national Fleadh Cheoil, Ireland's largest traditional music festival. Walking and Climbing[ edit ] The cliffs at Slieve League [36] are a "must-see", but only in fair weather, and a visit to Glencolumcille could be included in this outing. Similarly, a visit to Grianan of Aileach could be included in a trip to the Inishowen Peninsula . Weather will dictate whether one should climb Mount Errigal. Other easier climbs in the area include Muckish and Lough Salt Mountain, both of which are easier climbs but offer equally rewarding views from the top. Always leave details of time of departure and expected time of return with your local contacts when undertaking walking, climbing and boating activities, as bad weather can descend very quickly without warning. Glenveagh National Park is a haven for nature lovers, with its scenic walks and climbs, together with its gardens adn castle grounds. Plan to spend at least half a day here. Nearby Ards Forest Park is also worth a visit, with a great combination of wooded and beach walks.

Glenties is a good hillwalking base, situated at the meeting of two glens on the edge of the Bluestack Mountains. Water Sports[ edit ] Sea angling from Portnablagh (near Dunfanaghy ) and Downings is a good day out. The trip takes in a stop at Tory Island [37] . Rods and tackle are supplied and you can fish for mackerel, cod and pollock. Deep sea fishing is also available from many of the towns and villages located on the coast Surfing is a popular sport in the southern part of the county, around Bundoran and Donegal Town especially, as well as Lettermacaward and the Fanad Peninsula Eat[ edit ][ add listing ] All major towns in the area will have both restaurants and fast food outlets, with some of the latter being from the county's indigenous Four Lanterns chain. Rural areas will often have no eateries whatsoever, beyond takeaway chip shops, although many pubs offer meals, especially at lunch time. If all else fails, the supermarkets often have hot food to take away, such as roast chicken and potato wedges.

Ethnic tastes are well catered for in the major towns in Donegal, with Chinese, Indian and Italian food outlets widely available. Given the seaside location and vast coastline of County Donegal, seafood is in abundance. The port of Killybegs is one of the major fishing ports of Ireland. Drink[ edit ][ add listing ] Every town in the county features at least one pub - usually more. In smaller towns and villages, pubs may not open until late in the afternoon. Prices are significantly lower than in Dublin, with a pint of stout usually averaging €3.70 in rural areas. Many pubs have live traditional music during the summer, and at other times such as Christmas. Prices of drink in hotel bars are usually dearer than the pubs. Wine is becoming increasingly available in pubs, where you can order a quarter bottle of red or white, which several brand choices, at most pubs for around €4 to €5. Don't expect to get a top of the range wine unless you are in a good restaurant. The question is, do you really want to drink wine in the land of Guinness...

Question: In what county is the most northerly point in the island of Ireland?
Answer: DONEGAL